Scotland's Women

In this special episode, we sit down with Hazel Somerville from NHS Forth Valley, Gender-Based Violence & Sexual Assault Service Lead for the SARCS centre in Larbert, to discuss a vital service that could save lives' to 'a vital service supporting anyone who has experienced rape or sexual assault - yet too many people still don't know it exists.SARCS (Sexual Assault Response and Coordination Service) is a dedicated NHS sexual assault service available across Scotland, providing compassionate, trauma-informed care for survivors of rape and sexual assault. Hazel takes us through the journey of how SARCS came to Scotland in 2019, transforming care from police stations to safe, health-led environments designed to support survivors at their most vulnerable.In this powerful conversation, we explore the groundbreaking introduction of self-referral in 2022, giving survivors choice and control over their journey. Hazel explains what happens when you contact SARCS and what to expect from a Forensic Medical Examination, why the 7-day window matters for forensic evidence collection, and how SARCS provides wraparound care with medical, emotional, and practical support all in one place. We discuss the stark reality that one in three women will experience sexual assault in their lifetime, and why breaking the silence and having open conversations about sexual violence is crucial.Hazel shares how survivors are put at the centre of their care, with choices about examiners, timing, and whether to report to police, and the importance of bringing a trusted friend or relative for support for those who wishes to. She reveals how the service has evolved by listening to survivors with lived experience, and shares the emotional reality of walking alongside survivors through their darkest moments and witnessing their journey toward healing. This isn't just about medical examinations - it's about restoring dignity, power, and hope.SARCS is available 24/7 across Scotland as a free and confidential service. Anyone aged 16 and over can self-refer, and you can access support whether or not you report to police. Forensic evidence can be collected and stored for up to 26 months while you decide your next steps. You can bring a trusted friend or relative with you, and you'll be treated with compassion, dignity, and respect at all times by healthcare professionals who are specially trained to support you. Help is available even if the assault happened more than 7 days ago.If you or someone you know needs support, contact SARCS at 0800 148 8888 - the helpline is available 24/7. You can also visit NHS Inform and search "SARCS" for more information. Whether you've experienced sexual assault recently or in the past, whether you're ready to report to police or unsure, whether you need medical care or just someone to talk to - SARCS is here for you. You are not alone. You will be believed. You deserve support.

Happy New Year Listeners!Scotland's Women welcomes Jean Fenwick, a midlife coach and hypnotherapist, for an inspiring New Year conversation about transformation, resilience, and finding your purpose. In this deeply personal episode, Jean shares her remarkable journey from high-powered corporate executive to burnout survivor to empowering coach for women navigating life's biggest transitions. Diagnosed with a rare condition (MRKH) at age 14 and told she'd never have children or marry, Jean spent decades proving the world wrong—but at a devastating cost.Discover how Jean transformed trauma into purpose, learning that true change isn't about adding more to your to-do list, but about letting go of what no longer serves you. She reveals why most New Year's resolutions fail by February, the power of asking "what's your why?", and why willpower alone will never get you where you want to go.Perfect for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or wondering "is this it?", this episode offers practical wisdom on setting meaningful goals, creating a "to-be" list instead of a to-do list, and choosing one word to guide your year. Jean's message is clear: no matter how hard things have been, transformation is possible when you do the inner work.Follow Jean : https://www.instagram.com/jeanfenwick.innerwealthcoach/Contact Jean: https://www.jeanfenwick.com

Scotland's Women chats with midlife coach Jean Fenwick for an inspiring New Year's episode about finding your purpose and creating meaningful change. Jean shares her transformational journey from corporate burnout to helping women navigate life's biggest transitions. Discover why most resolutions fail, the power of asking "what's your why?", and practical strategies for making 2026 your year of intentional change.Episode coming soon!Follow Jean : https://www.instagram.com/jeanfenwick.innerwealthcoach/Contact Jean: https://www.jeanfenwick.com

Unmasking Christmas Joy — Scotland’s Women Podcast Christmas EpisodeIn this special Christmas episode, Scotland’s Women welcomes Lauren, a dancer and fire performer, who shares her inspiring journey of self-acceptance after being diagnosed with ADHD. Lauren reflects on the true magic of Christmas—cherishing time with family and chosen loved ones, creating new traditions, and finding moments of peace and happiness. She describes the unique joy she experiences performing as an elf on a steam train, bringing smiles to children and adults, and how Christmas gives everyone permission to embrace their inner child.A central theme of this special episode is Lauren’s decision to stop masking her true self. After years of trying to fit in and hide her differences, her diagnosis empowered her to live authentically and celebrate her neurodivergence as a strength. No longer exhausted by pretending, Lauren now finds freedom and joy in being fully herself—at Christmas and every day. Her story is a heartwarming reminder to embrace who you are, find your own joy, and share it with others during the festive season. Be true to yourself, It's YOUR Christmas too! Follow Lauren's Journey: https://www.instagram.com/laurencmoore/Or get in touch : https://www.tiktok.com/@fireanddance

Step into an unforgettable episode filled with raw honesty, courage, and hope as we sit down with Karly—a dynamic DJ, dedicated teacher, and true force of positivity. Karly shares her remarkable journey of resilience and transformation, opening up about her move from Scotland to Dubai, navigating life independently, and the challenges she’s faced along the way—including her health struggles with ovarian cysts, surgery, and the emotional impact of infertility.Karly’s story is one of turning adversity into strength. She candidly discusses her experiences with miscarriage, multiple surgeries, and the difficult decisions she’s had to make about her body and future. Despite these hardships, Karly’s unwavering optimism shines through. She talks about the importance of mindset, the power of sharing your story, and how she’s found purpose in helping others who are going through similar struggles.Listeners will be moved by Karly’s honesty, humour, and determination to live life to the fullest. Whether she’s behind the DJ decks, teaching in the classroom, or supporting friends through tough times, Karly embodies the spirit of perseverance and hope. Her advice? “Live for the moment, fail your way forward, and remember—it’s okay to cry, it’s okay to speak out, and everything will be okay.” Tune in for a conversation that’s as uplifting as it is real, and discover why Karly is an inspiration to women everywhere.Follow Karly's Journey : https://www.instagram.com/__kazza1x/

In this deeply personal and inspiring up and coming episode "Behind the Decks," Karly bravely shares her journey through miscarriage, ongoing health battles, and the emotional challenges of facing fertility issues far from home. She opens up about the difficult decision to undergo surgery and the impact it had on her path to motherhood. Through honest conversation, Karly reflects on the loneliness, grief, and strength it takes to keep moving forward, as well as the importance of community and speaking out. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is hope, healing, and the possibility to turn pain into purpose. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, positivity, and the courage to live life on your own terms.Follow Karly's journey : https://www.instagram.com/__kazza1x/

Brace yourself for an episode that goes straight to the heart. Scotland's Women welcomes Jen Wilson—The Healing Rebel—for a conversation that’s as vulnerable as it is empowering.Jen’s story is one of grit, heartbreak, and hope. She takes us through the darkest days of her life: the confusion and fear of a Crohn’s disease diagnosis, the crushing weight of anxiety and panic attacks, and the relentless pressure to keep going, keep pleasing, keep performing—even as her body was screaming for rest. Jen opens up about the pain of losing her health, the guilt of slowing down, and the loneliness of feeling misunderstood.But this is also a story of fierce resilience. Jen shares the raw truth of what it took to rebuild her life from the inside out—learning to trust her body, set boundaries, and finally put her own needs first. She talks about the messy process of unlearning childhood conditioning, the courage it takes to say “no,” and the freedom that comes from embracing rest and imperfection.With honesty and humour, Jen reveals the small daily rituals and mindset shifts that helped her find healing—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually. She challenges us all to become “healing rebels,” daring to break the rules, honour our bodies, and live with unapologetic authenticity.If you’ve ever felt burned out, invisible, or trapped by expectations, this episode will speak to your soul. Get ready for tears, laughter, and a powerful reminder that you are not alone—and that healing is possible, even in the face of life’s toughest battles.Follow Jen: https://www.instagram.com/iam.jenwilson/

Get ready for a raw and rebellious episode! We sit down with Jen Wilson—The Healing Rebel—for an unfiltered conversation about what it really takes to reclaim your health and your life.Jen opens up about her journey from fitness instructor to wellness advocate after a life-changing Crohn’s disease diagnosis. She shares how years of pushing through pain, people-pleasing, and ignoring her body’s signals led to burnout—and how she fought her way back by learning to listen, rest, and say “no” to society’s expectations.We dive into the realities of living with chronic illness, the power of mindset, and the importance of unlearning childhood conditioning. Jen reveals her practical strategies for managing anxiety, setting boundaries, and building a life that actually feels good—plus, why she believes every woman should become her own “healing rebel.”If you’re ready for honest stories, actionable advice, and a fresh perspective on self-care, this episode is for you. Episode coming soon—don’t miss it!Follow Jen: https://www.instagram.com/iam.jenwilson/